Sacred Heart Fires

Just like in the other parts of Tyrol, the Sacred Heart of Jesus is celebrated in Val Pusteria as well. The festival takes place on the third Sunday after Whitsun and is dedicated to the "Great Promise" which was pronounced in 1796 when Napoleon's troops were invading Tyrol. The abbot of Stams put Tyrol under the protection of the Most Sacred Heart. As Andreas Hofer, a well-known South Tyrolean freedom fighter and his troops won the battles on Bergisel, he renewed his promise to the Sacred Heart and swore eternal faith.

From this moment on this traditional festival has been celebrated every year on a particular Sunday in June. On the mountain peaks, hills and small slopes bonfires illuminate the sky! As night falls, the locals light impressive bonfires in memory of the solemn promise. In some of the bonfires you might recognise hearts, crosses, the Tyrolean Eagle and inscriptions. Don't miss this unique event!